From ballet to hip-hop, the stage is set for a dance school at the former Dworkin Chevrolet dealership on Seymour Avenue.
The Planning and Zoning Commission gave unanimous approval during a brief meeting Monday evening for a special exception so Debbie Parlow, owner of the Danz Magic dance school, can relocate her thriving business to the large space.
“I hope to open in 30 days or so,” Parlow said after the meeting in Derby City Hall.
The five-acre property at 198 Seymour Ave. will provide ample parking for the studio’s classes, which are conducted mostly in the late afternoon and evening.
Up to now, she has taught mostly children at her small, one-room studio on Olivia Street. The new larger space — 6,200 square-feet — will allow her to offer some adult classes as well.
“There will be aerobics and Zumba,” Parlow said in a telephone interview before the meeting. She hopes to employ six people there.
Parlow did not speak at the hearing, but handed the commissioners copies of her plans.
“Good luck,” said chairman Ted Estwan, after the unanimous approval.
Parlow began her Danz Magic in Milford 24 years ago. She opened her first location in Derby 22 years ago and has moved several times.The former Dworkin dealership had been a Valley staple for 40 years, but closed in 2009 due to the recession and chaos in the automobile industry. Fewer people bought cars, and at the same time, it was harder for dealers to get loans. Within the first half of 2009, the state reportedly lost 20 dealerships.
Now there are empty car dealerships in places like Derby and Ansonia that potentially could be used for other purposes. The dance studio is an example of that, making use of the large interior space and ample parking.
Zoning approval is often a hurdle for any new use of a property, but Parlow correctly predicted that her application would not draw neighborhood resistance.
She sees a social calling in her business.
“The best part is children are keeping busy and happy and they are off the streets,” she said.
For more information on Danz Magic call the school at 203 – 736-0120.
